Have you ever wondered how Amsterdam got its creative, free thinking reputation or why so many internationals flock to the city?

If so, check out Amsterdam DNA, an ongoing exhibition at the Amsterdam Museum, located in the heart of the historic city centre.

Visitors can follow a chronological display peeking into the city’s history, spanning 1.000 years: from damming the Amstel River to the height of international trade during the Dutch Golden Age and further on to the location of royal inaugurations.

This engaging exhibition brings both locals and tourists in touch with the complex history of Amsterdam and its residents, both past and present. 

1.000 years of history

The story of Amsterdam is a long and detailed one and this interactive exhibit allows visitors to chronicle the highlights across seven historical portions, all packed into a 45-minute tour!

Visitors can explore pivotal moments in the city’s history, including the era of French occupation and tragedies of World War II throughout this whistle stop tour of Amsterdam!

In contrast, the city’s liberal tolerance for soft drugs and the "free city" movement in the 1960s are also featured on interactive displays.

Four values

Amsterdam’s DNA is divided into four values: sprit of enterprise, freedom of thought, civic virtue and creativity. Each segment highlights a significant aspect of Amsterdam's past and present.

A multicultural city

Upholding its reputation as the most multicultural city in the world, Amsterdam currently represents 178 nationalities.

Throughout its history, Amsterdam has been an appealing city to immigrants from around the globe as it has offered an open society and religious tolerance since the 17th century.

With guides available in 10 languages including English, Italian, Russian and Japanese, this exhibition is ideal for international tourists and expats who want to discover the historical side of Amsterdam. 

Notes

› Address: Kalverstraat 92, Amsterdam Museum
› Phone: +31 (0) 20 523 18 22
› Email: info[at]amsterdammuseum[dot]nl
› Admission: 10 (adults), 5 (children 5 - 18 years)
› Opening hours: daily 10am - 5pm
› Find more about the exhibition here

Those who want to take their experience one step further can download the MuseumApp and engage in a one of four different city walking tours.